HIP 128: Energy Subnetwork

• Author(s): @frahlg, @jthiller, @abhay, @T0bias0lss0n, @leitet, @VIKOLO
• Start Date: 2024-07-03
• Category: Economic, Technical, Governance
• Original HIP PR: #1050
• Tracking Issue: #1051
• Vote Requirements: veHNT Holders

Summary

This HIP proposes the creation of ENERGY, a new subnetwork within the Helium ecosystem. This network rewards users who participate in solar power production and battery energy storage. The network aims to collect data from, and offer control of connected solar power and battery resources.

The ENERGY subnetwork is designed to create significant value for the entire Helium ecosystem:

1. Dual Mining for Existing Compatible Hotspots
   Existing compatible Helium Hotspots can be upgraded to participate in the ENERGY network and earn both IOT and ENERGY rewards.

2. Utilization of the IOT Network
   The ENERGY network will transfer supporting sensor data over the existing IOT infrastructure. This creates a substantial new use case for the IOT network through increased network activity.

3. Increased DC Burn
   Energy management and grid stabilization services provided by the ENERGY network will drive significant Data Credit (DC) burn. This increased DC burn directly benefits all HNT holders by potentially increasing HNT value through the burn-and-mint equilibrium.

4. Expansion of Helium
   By entering the rapidly growing renewable energy sector, Helium expands its utility and potential market reach attracting new participants and investors.

5. Sustainability
   The ENERGY network aligns Helium with global sustainability goals, potentially attracting environmentally conscious users and partners. This could open up new opportunities for grants, partnerships, and positive public relations for Helium.

The ENERGY subnetwork is a practical expansion for Helium. It builds on the existing network while tapping into the growing renewable energy market, solving the real world problems of the acceleration renewable power. This addition will increase IOT network usage, drive more Data Credit burn, and give Hotspot operators new ways to earn.

Rendered View

https://github.com/helium/HIP/blob/main/0128-energy-subnetwork.md